IRC Hacks

Colophon

Our look is the result of reader comments, our own experimentation, and feedback from distribution channels. Distinctive covers complement our distinctive approach to technical topics, breathing personality and life into potentially dry subjects.

The tool on the cover of IRC Hacks is a hacksaw. The hacksaw is a saw specifically designed for cutting short or thin metal building materials as well as PVC pipe. It has an adjustable frame and uses thin, flexible blades that are stretched tightly in the frame. The blades are meant to be disposed of after they become dull from use. The finer the teeth on a hacksaw blade, the thinner the piece of metal that can be cut. A junior hacksaw is used for even finer cutting, and intricate cutwork in metal requires a piercing saw.

In Greek mythology, the saw was invented by Talos, who was the nephew of the preeminent inventor Daedalus. By the time he was twelve, Talos had invented not only the saw, but the potter’s wheel and the compass. Daedalus murdered his nephew out of professional jealousy, luring him to the top of the Acropolis and then pushing him off. The Furies-who punished criminals, especially murderers-strongly disapproved of parricide, and manipulated events such that Daedalus’ son, Icarus, perished while flying in one of Daedalus’ own inventions.

Sarah Sherman was the production editor and Norma Emory was the copyeditor for IRC Hacks. Catherine Morris was the proofreader, and Matt Hutchinson and Emily Quill provided quality control. ...